with Rev. Meredith GarmonThe living tradition we share draws from many sources. One of them, explicit in the UUA bylaws adopted in 1985, is: "Humanist teachings which counsel us to heed the guidance of reason ad the results of science, and warn us against idolatries of mind a spirit." We'll celebrate our humanist heritage, exploring especially this warning against idolatry.Support the show

with Rev. Meredith GarmonThe living tradition we share draws from many sources. One of them, explicit in the UUA bylaws adopted in 1985, is: "Humanist teachings which counsel us to heed the guidance of reason ad the results of science, and warn us against idolatries of mind a spirit." We'll celebrate our humanist heritage, exploring especially this warning against idolatry.Support the show

with Rev. Meredith Garmon Our November theme is Reason. We're not very good at it. We can train ourselves to be better at it, but do we want to?Support the show

with Rev. Meredith GarmonDía de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a festive celebration in memory of those who have died. Its origins in Mesoamerica go back over 3000 years, even though it was shaped by two Roman Catholic holidays: All Saints Day (November 1) and All Souls Day (November 2). We will honor this tradition and reflect on the loved ones who are no longer with us.Support the show

with Rev. Meredith Garmon Come be a part of something bigger than yourself. Climate Justice intersects with all other forms of justice– economic justice, racial justice, social justice and more. Together we are enough!Support the show

with Meredith GarmonWe're still living out lessons the great Universalist Minister Hosea Ballou (1771-1852) preached.Support the show

Paul Nelson is a member of First Unitarian Church, and was formerly an ELCA/Lutheran pastor (1994-2009). He is looking forward to offering some thoughts on our monthly theme, "Fear."Support the show

with Meredith GarmonOur theme for October is "fear." We all fear. What lessons can we learn from fear — and how can we prevent it from hijacking our better judgment?Support the show

We'll be looking at Danya Ruttenberg's insights from her book "On Repentance and Repair: Making Amends in an Unapologetic World." The book is the UUA Common Read for 2023-24.Support the show

"God" is, most usually and commonly, a noun. Last week we explored how to think of "god" as a verb. This week we'll look at the adjective option. It’s not about what exists; it’s about the qualities of existence: is it wondrous, mysterious, beautiful, awesome? Those adjectives are the crux of the matter.Support the show

We gathered to celebrate the church year ahead in the waning days of summer (autumn begins on September 22). Each brought a small sample of water to represent the last 12 weeks. We then reflected together on our September theme: hospitality. Support the show

Railcar magnate George Pullman was a Universalist, born and bred. He had a certain recognizable Universalist idealism – but it went horribly, instructively, awry. As a result, we have Labor Day. Support the show

Member Louise Alcorn will discuss growing up Unitarian Universalist, the confusion and freedoms that brought, and how she "cherry-picked" her way to now.Support the show

It’s often at life’s extremes of joy and pain that we become most in tune with our spirituality or at least experience a strengthened drive to seek meaning. Sarah will reflect on this and how her beliefs have helped her weather the storms of life and find hope. Support the show

Al Powers’ story of his journey to becoming a UU and Humanist, and his reflections on what Humanism means to him todaySupport the show

Bill Brauch’s reflection on the pathway of his own free and responsible search for truth and meaning. Support the show

In a world where spirituality and self-identity often find themselves at odds, queer individuals have faced the challenge of balancing their faith and self-identity. Today's speaker, our very own Faith Formation and Congregational Life Coordinator, Faithyna Leonard, will discuss her path navigating her spiritual journey while learning to be true to herself. As she shares her story, we will gain insights into the struggles and triumphs of remaining faithful to her spiritual beliefs while also ...

Join Elliott Nolte for an exploration of developing a personal prayer practice based on attentiveness to story and spirit.Support the Show.

What does it mean to weave a spiritual life? What are the strands would you call your own? Join member Sally Boeckholt for an exploration of four aspects of life that have come together to build a personal theology about possibility and change.Support the Show.

In this presentation, Amy Landrigan, Vice President of Strategy & Venture for Central Iowa Shelter and Services, will explore the comprehensive range of services provided by the organization. Learn how these initiatives work together to not only address immediate needs but also empower individuals to move from merely surviving to truly thriving. Discover the impactful ways in which CISS supports our community members on their journey to a better life.Support the Show.

The picture is called "Enso." This image has been associated with the Zen tradition and represents what can be described as "the mind before thought," "the awareness that exists behind thought," or, in my particular case, "the secret in our hearts."Support the Show.

with Rev. LoraKim JoynerToday, we will briefly review the scientific and cultural aspects of how people relate and respond to nature, and specifically to birds. Being intentionally mindful of birds reaps benefits not just for humans but for the birds themselves. As people come to understand and connect to birds, they increase their resilience and health by being with birds and, in so doing, increase their capacity to care for themselves and others. The mindful practice of birds can take...

with Rev. Meredith GarmonShunryu Suzuki said, "You are perfect just as you are, and you could use a little improvement." Or, we might say, "...and you're still growing." So how should a perfect person live?Support the Show.

with Rev. Meredith GarmonWe’re an LGBTQ welcoming congregation because it’s the right thing to do, because it’s what justice requires, but also out of sheer gratitude for what diversity of attraction and of identity teaches all of us about ourselves.Support the Show.